Theme Of Fidelity In Othello

Loyalty is a fundamental characteristic of humanity that constitutes the foundations of relationships. It can be molded or forged to benefit a calculating individual. Integrity can be manipulated in order to shift alliances however certain characters remain true to their initial allegiance, such as Desdemona in Shakespeare’s Othello. Fidelity is called into question within the play, although virtue is constantly demonstrated. Women in the late 16th century were seen as completely pure or evil, and so opinions of them changed and formed against them easily. The first the audience hears of Desdemona, she is accused of elopement, which Shakespeare expresses with the metaphor, “You have lost half your soul”. This statement addresses the woman’s father, in reference to how child and parent are bonded

together until the child’s marriage. In the Elizabethan era, fortunes of the father went with the daughter in marriage, so elopement was seen as theft. Despite this negative light, the composer uses positive descriptive language to refer to Desdemona as “virtuous” and “honest”. These traits are further demonstrated through her desire to be with her husband when he is called to Cyprus for his work. However, the protagonist’s view of his wife is altered as the antagonist manipulates his devotion.

Shakespeare employs symbolism through the handkerchief as a token of love and faithfulness. When the protagonist is shown this token is no longer with Desdemona, rage incites within him and he strikes her out of pain and jealousy. Shakespeare uses this symbol to show that objects given in love and trust are directly connected to one’s integrity, and abuse of said trust results in broken faith. The composer uses a visual imagery metaphor in the protagonist’s dialogue stating his heart had “turned to stone” in relation to his wife. Through this change Desdemona is unaware of her alleged infidelity and so continues to act, as usual, oblivious to what it may seem like to Othello. The protagonist’s jealousy eventually drives him to murder his wife, who with her final words proclaims that she has committed suicide in order to acquit Othello from any blame. Shakespeare concludes the play with the dramatic irony of the emotive “she loved thee, cruel Moor”. This statement shows the audience that when caught up in orchestrated jealousy, one forgets true loyalty and tends to act

rashly. Through the play, we are shown the pure character of Desdemona, tainted by the actions of manipulation around her. Shakespeare uses her purity to show that a manipulative individual shaping the weaknesses of another can break down even the strongest of commitments. Integrity is inextricably linked to trust as without true faith, allegiance crumbles. Desdemona is a virtuous and true character to all, remaining so even in the face of death and thereafter.